Jeff Samardzija will be putting no protective hat on this head. (USATSI)
Jeff Samardzija will be putting no protective hat on this head. (USATSI)

HEYMAN: After Chapman, pitchers thinking safety

In the wake of the terrifying injury to Reds closer Aroldis Chapman, MLB.com's Carrie Muskat asked Cubs right-hander Jeff Samardzija whether he'd opt to wear a protective hat on the mound this season. Here is Mr. Samardzija's terse and fashion-first response:

“No,” he said. “They look stupid.”

I have little trouble imagining 9-year-old Jeff Samardzija's having a similar conversation regarding bike helmets. Samardzija goes on to note that he's aware of risks involved and is making the decision to forego headgear on an informed basis. 

His larger point, though, is true and keenly felt by all of us: No one likes things that look stupid and dumb and lame-wad and stupid.